The experienced Edwards is set to partner City skipper Matt Taylor in central defence following Danny Seaborne's midweek transfer to rivals Southampton.

With on-loan Tottenham defender Troy Archibald-Henville suspended and City's only other recognised centre half, Scot Bennett, on loan at Weymouth, Edwards is set to get the nod to start against the promotion favourites in front of an anticipated sell-out crowd at St James' Park.

Striker Barry Corr is still suspended so Tisdale is again set to pair Adam Stansfield in attack with veteran striker Marcus Stewart, who notched his 200th League goal in last week's 3-1 defeat at Norwich.